The Westin Columbus   

Since 1896, both theatergoers and gourmands have enjoyed hobnobbing and nibbling at the elegant Great Southern Hotel bar before or after an evening at the landmark Southern Theatre. Why? For over a century, history has lent a sophisticated air to Thurber's, from the cherry-and-chintz decor to the cummerbund-clad staff. The martini menu is arguably the best in the downtown area, and the outstanding appetizers are main events on their own. There's plenty of elbow room, too, which makes it equally well suited for business lunches, romantic trysts and group gatherings (they can arrange for celebratory cakes and favors if requested in advance). And we know what you're thinking: Life doesn't get much better than a fabulous pre-theater dinner with the promise of a showstopping Broadway show afterward. Now that's worthy of a curtain call.